Businesses not prepared for challenge of Olympics, says survey

New research has suggested many companies remain unprepared for the considerable supply chain challenges posed by the 2012 Olympic Games.

The Freight Transport Association's (FTA's) survey found that only five per cent of firms in the logistics sector believe they are ready to tackle the disruption to normal operations likely to occur during the event.

In addition, one-third of respondents said they currently have no knowledge of how the new Olympic route network and the so-called Games Lanes will operate in London.

A countdown ceremony for the 2012 games - which will begin in 12 months' time - was held in Trafalgar Square this week.

"How well London copes with hosting the world's largest sporting event will depend largely on how well prepared the logistics sector is at managing the unique challenge it faces," said Natalie Chapman, the FTA's head of policy for London.

In reference to the findings of the survey, she added that "alarm bells should be ringing for the logistics sector, businesses and all Olympic stakeholders".

The FTA asked companies that operate freight in and around the capital about various aspects of their preparations for next year's sporting extravaganza, including contingency plans and the provision of extra vehicles.

According to the Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA), the procurement process for London 2012 has seen 1,500 direct contracts worth more than £6 billion awarded to companies, resulting in thousands of supply chain deals spreading across the UK.

The ODA said 98 per cent of the direct contracts were given to British-based firms.

A total of 15,000 athletes from more than 200 countries will travel to London to compete in the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The official opening ceremony is due to take place on July 27th 2012, with the games running from July 28th to August 12th.

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